Today’s Workout: Hip bridge crunch tones midsection

Friday

Jul 12, 2019 at 1:01 AM

By Marlo AllevaMore Content Now

It’s inevitable for most of us to be sporting our favorite summertime suits and shorts on these hot days. We should feel good about ourselves when we do, not just for vanity’s sake either, but physically as well.Our move today is a hip bridge crunch, and this move will not only tone your midsection, but add strength to your core and aid in taking the load off your back.All you need is a flat surface for this exercise.Begin this move by lying on your back. Bend in your knees and place both feet on the ground. Rotate your hips upward and lift them up and off the floor.Gently place both hands behind your head and find a focal point, and you are ready to move.Start by engaging the midsection and lifting the shoulders off the floor. This move will be small, as your hips are already lifted. Once you reach your deepest contraction, slowly return to the start; all the while keeping the hips and glutes engaged.Shoot for at least 10-15 repetitions, taking a small break, then continuing on for at least three sets.The best part about this exercise is you are not only getting an abdominal workout, but a glute and hamstrings toning also.This move is double duty, so it’s good on its own, or even better added into your abdominal routine.And best part: Not only will you feel great this summer, but you’ll look pretty good, too!

Marlo Alleva, an instructor at Gold’s Gym and group fitness coordinator at Fontaine- Gills YMCA in Lakeland, Florida, can be reached at faluvzpa@msn.com.